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How To Plan A self-Drive safari To Amboseli National Park In Kenya
How To Plan A self-Drive safari To Amboseli National Park In Kenya: Located (240 km) southeast of Nairobi, Amboseli National Park stands as a true African treasure, often overlooked amidst the splendor of the Masai Mara and Serengeti. Renowned for offering unparalleled vistas of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, this park boasts not only breathtaking scenery but also hosts one of the continent’s most significant elephant populations. Alongside these gentle giants, Amboseli teems with a rich array of wildlife, including zebras, lions, cheetahs, and buffalo, promising unforgettable encounters for both novice and seasoned travelers alike.
How to get to Amboseli National Park
For travelers keen on a self-drive safari in Amboseli National Park, arriving from Nairobi or Arusha, the optimal approach is to embark on the adventure from the western side, heading towards the east. The western entry points, Meshanani Gate or Kiritua Gate, are conveniently situated approximately 70-80 kilometers from the town of Namanga. It’s worth noting that while the road from Namanga to Kiritua Gate is a dirt road, the overall road conditions are excellent. Additionally, this area offers a range of accommodation options and camping sites
Within the park, it’s important to adhere to regulations which strictly prohibit off-road driving (a contrast to the rules in Masai Mara). Fortunately, the park boasts outstanding signage, making navigation a breeze. Amboseli’s efficient organization and clear markings make it exceptionally easy to explore without the risk of losing your way, a significant advantage for those seeking a self-driving experience.
Camping sites in Amboseli National Park
WE4Kenya
Established Campground
GPS: -2.69246, 37.42302
Altitude: 1,153 m
Last Visited: 10/12/2023
Description
Very nice campsite in a very quite area. Nice owner named Wilson. Clean toilet and shower with hot water. Nice restaurant with tasty food. Place is difficult to find, call before +254713046384, no WiFi, no pool, they offer free nature walk and culture walk for free.
Highly recommended
Oldonyo Musa Camp
Oldonyo Musa Camp Established Campground
Open: YES
GPS: -2.77218, 37.43445
Altitude: 1,323 m
Distance: 180.1 km
Last Visited: 11/30/2023
Description
A self-catered campsite set up on the Amboseli-Kimana gate road. Managed by Winnie, a lady who has spent years studying Amboseli’s elephants. The contact for the Camp is Ruth (+254769046521). / 0715368636. Currently offers a shelter with seating and electric plug sockets (currently on solar energy and generator.), large communal fire pit, flat concrete bases for ground tents, and space for approx many vehicles with roof tents. Views of Kilimanjaro. The pavements towards the tents are lined with lights. Running water is available. Hot and cold showers as per suitability. Ablutions clean. 3 long drop toilets and 3 flushing toilets are available.
Little Amanya Camp
Established Campground
Open: YES
GPS: -2.58794, 37.35638
Altitude: 1,184 m
Last Visited: 10/12/2023
Description
Campsite just outside Amboseli National park, close to Iremito Gate. The campsite is mostly providing fixed tents with bedroom and bathrooms, but there is camping space available for tents & campervans. They offer camp spots for 2,000 Ksh per night (1 car, 2 persons). Showers and toilets with running water available. Moreover, they organize a bonfire in the evening. Price at the higher end, but fair considering the proximity to the national park and stunning view on Mount Kilimanjaro. Good location to explore Amboseli NP and area around. Can get very windy (up to 25 kt). Available dinner for 15 Dollars pp and breakfast for 10 pp at the in-house Restaurant. Wifi available at reception and Restaurants.
Kimana Community Campsite
Established Campground
Open: YES
GPS: -2.73790, 37.37636
Altitude: 1,203 m
Distance: 174.0 km
Last Visited: 31/12/2023
Description
Campsite with set-up tents and bandas just outside Ambolesi National Park. Well located, 15 minutes from Kimana gate along an ok gravel/dirt road. Good view of Mt Kilimanjaro when clear skies. Great stay at the Kimana Camping : just outside the Amboseli park, a 15min drive from the Kimana gate. Nice flat camping spots under big trees for the shade. Hot water showers, toilets, a place do wash your dishes, light in the trees at night if needed. We have been very well welcomed by David +254 725 476478
Best time to visit Amaboseli National Park
While Amboseli National Park is accessible year-round, the optimal time to visit is during the dry months spanning from June to October and January to February. Although Kilimanjaro is frequently concealed by clouds, the most favorable moments for unobstructed panoramas are in the early morning and late afternoon. Exceptionally clear views are often experienced during the Wet season from November to May, when the sky is free from dust.
Amboseli beyond the typical game drives.
In close proximity to the national park, cultural village excursions with the Masai are available, offering a distinct experience despite the park’s considerable distance from Namanga. Moreover, those intrigued by the park’s intrinsic activities can partake in various delightful experiences. These include night drives at a modest cost of 20 USD, horse riding for 25 USD, and even walking safaris priced at just 15 USD.
Tariffs & Regulations
Many factors impact Kenya safari prices including the cost of the park entrance fee.
Prices per person per day:
USD $60 per adult non resident per day (24 hrs). The gates into the Amboseli National Park open at 6am and close at 6pm.
Regulations
If you keep to park rules, you can stay with the animals as long as they are not disturbed by your presence.
